House backs tax exempt Girl Scout cookies

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The Idaho House narrowly passed a bill Wednesday that would allow Girl Scouts to keep the sales tax on the thousands of boxes of Thin Mint cookies sold each year.

Republican Rep. Janet Trujillo, of Idaho Falls, says tax exemptions for both Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts would pay off exponentially in state savings. She says Girl Scouts are 81 percent more likely to earn a four-year degree and much less likely to engage in risky behaviors.

The measure that passed 35-31 received a robust debate on the House floor with some conservative lawmakers questioning the bill's fairness.

Republican Rep. Heather Scott, of Blanchard, argued the measure treats some nonprofits differently than others and is unconstitutional.

Idaho is one of two states that currently tax Girl Scout cookies. The state collects approximately $200,000 each year.